skip to main content

Statin-associated muscle symptoms — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareStatin-associated muscle symptomsUSMLE Step 3

A 60-year-old man started high-intensity atorvastatin after a transient ischemic attack. Four weeks later he has bilateral thigh aching. Creatine kinase is normal and urine is clear. He has no weakness, fever, or rash. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's findings?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Statin-associated muscle symptoms without myonecrosis

Myalgias with normal CK after statin initiation are common and differ from rhabdomyolysis or inflammatory myopathy.

Reference: ACC/AHA cholesterol guideline: https://www.acc.org/